The City of Brampton has approved a broad set of new and increased user fees impacting recreation programs, park rentals, fire services, and animal services, as part of its annual fee review process.
Brampton city council approved the changes in late February, with final ratification in early March. While some of the updated fees have already taken effect as of January 1 and March 1, the majority are scheduled to come into force starting September 1, 2026.
The increases cover hundreds of services across the city. Recreation fees for programs and activities have generally risen modestly, typically between 30 cents and $5, although some services such as rock climbing have seen slight reductions. However, larger increases have been applied to team sports and facility rentals, where fees are going up by $5 to $30. New “player-per-team” fees will also be introduced for sports leagues later this year.
Non-residents will face significantly higher costs, with surcharges ranging from 30 per cent to as much as 100 per cent depending on the activity. The city defines non-residents as individuals who do not live in Brampton, as well as residents whose property taxes have not been paid.
Cultural services have also been affected, with increases in arts programming fees, theatre rentals and ticket prices. New learning programs for students, including acting, DJ’ing and film-related training, will also come with new fee structures.
Parks and forestry-related costs have gone up as well, including fees for equipment such as bleachers and fencing used during private events. A new $50 administrative fee has been introduced for special event permits.
Fire and emergency services fees have seen notable increases, particularly for landlords violating Brampton’s residential rental licensing program. Inspection fees now start at $3,000 for a first violation, rising to $5,000 for a second and $10,000 for subsequent inspections. However, fees related to fire response at motor vehicle collisions remain unchanged.
Animal services fees have also increased, including costs for pet sterilization, surrender, euthanasia and cremation — with some cremation fees more than doubling. At the same time, the city has introduced new adoption fees for puppies and kittens under six months old and increased fees for older animals.
City officials say user fees are reviewed annually to reflect service delivery costs, maintain quality, and ensure fairness across programs, while also allowing flexibility for discounts or promotional pricing where needed.